The answer is: 12

Num 13

Moses sending out 12 spies into the land of Canaan is a fascinating moment in the Bible! You might picture a suspenseful scene as these men trekked through a new, mysterious land to see what awaited the Israelites. They came from each tribe—one from each of the 12 tribes—emphasizing the unity and shared purpose among the community. This mission wasn’t just about gathering information; it held deeply significant symbolic weight.

When they returned, however, the reports were mixed. Ten of the spies focused on the challenges—the gigantic figures of the inhabitants and fortified cities that filled the landscape. Meanwhile, only two spies, Caleb and Joshua, saw promise and possibility amidst the obstacles, emphasizing faith and courage. Interestingly, this contrast mirrors so many aspects of life where we can choose optimism over fear.

Did you know that “scout” is a fitting word for what the spies did? This goes back to how ancient armies and explorers gathered vital info before moving forward. Canaan would eventually be home to some influential biblical figures (think Saul, David, Solomon) and serve as a pivotal location in numerous scriptural narratives.

It also highlights how closely linked faith and fear can be—a neighborly reminder for our own journeys. Trust, especially when faced with daunting challenges, remains a core themewaiting to resonate with everyone display their viewpoints through perseverance.